A NEW scheme to help tackle alcohol-related violence has been launched in Derby ahead of this year's World Cup.
The initiative, known as the Cardiff model, after the city where it was pioneered prevents alcohol-related violence by sharing information between police and the NHS and is being trialled throughout June and July across the city.
It is known that large numbers of violent offences which result in treatment in A&E are not reported to police and this model aims to reduce the number of these incidents.
Superintendent Gary Parkin said: "Our public health partners are providing us with anonymous data that will help us identify hot spots where alcohol-related violence is happening so that we can target our resources more efficiently.
"While we have our own information sources, this initiative will provide us with the missing part of the jigsaw about what is happening and where.
"The data also allows us to identify licensed premises that may need extra support from the police.
"We're very grateful to the public health staff who gather this information for us, in what can be very difficult situations," said Supt Parkin.
Councillor Asaf Afzal, cabinet member for planning, environment and public protection at Derby City Council, said: "The initiative will run throughout the World Cup as previous national and international sporting events have seen an increase in the numbers of individuals consuming alcohol within Derby city venues.
"Whilst the majority of people will go and watch the football and enjoy themselves, we also want to ensure that Derby people are kept safe, that the city centre is a welcoming and inviting place to watch the football and ultimately, make sure everyone has a good time.
The city council's public health team will be working alongside police targeting hot spot areas for violence, attending pub watch meetings and inform licensees of planned local activity during the plan.
Dr Iain Lennon, emergency department clinical lead at the Royal Derby Hospital, said: "Figures show that 30% of out of hours emergencies are alcohol related, so we are pleased to be supporting this initiative which we hope will improve the situation."
